Earning one’s place within FC Barcelona is a challenge not every player can rise up to. However, there are also those who seem to lose their place at the Catalan club after once having found it. Many Barcelona stars over the years have gone through this ordeal, but very few have overcome this problem.
One player who definitely hopes to do so is Spanish veteran Sergi Roberto. Once the gloried hero of Barça’s ‘Remontada’ against PSG in the UEFA Champions League, Roberto soon fell away from the spotlight. Now, as Barcelona heads into the second half of the 2023/24 season, he could have his shot at redemption.
As highlighted by AS, the latest performance from the Barcelona captain against Almeria changed a lot of perceptions. Originally seen as a player who would barely get by this season, Roberto has now shown that he still has quality attached to his name.
With a brace against Almeria, one that could have easily been a hattrick, he revitalized the expectations attached to him. Moreover, another factor also improves the importance of that particular brace.
While some could have brushed it aside as a slight cleanse on his declining season, most will now see it in a better light. This is mainly due to the injuries to both Gavi and Pedri, who are sidelined for different amounts of time.
For Roberto, however, these injuries and his resurgent performance could become his beacon of hope. Now playing as a midfielder, and not as a right-back, he has a much better chance of making an impact.
Playing as a midfielder has always been his preferred role, and he now has a lot of opportunities ahead with that role. Roberto will be hoping to end his possibly final season at Barcelona with silverware.
Even in January, there is a chance to win the Spanish Super Cup. With the injuries involved, Roberto could even be an undisputed starter in that specific competition. Xavi also maintains faith in the veteran, acknowledging his importance beyond just the field.
With six months left in the season, the Spaniard has a great chance to impress. Despite his contract ending in the summer, Roberto would love to continue for an additional year. Moreover, if the circumstances permit, even Xavi would be on board with that idea.